Question
Hi - I dislocated my ankle 8/6/09 in a car accident; ankle was reduced in ER within an hour, and there were no breaks or fractures on the first and subsequent sets of x-rays. I was released 8/7/09 in a U-shaped splint and told not to bear any weight on the ankle. I complied, using a walker and crutches. On 8/25/09, I returned to the orthopedist and was given a walking boot. I was told to remove it for showers only, and to sleep with it on. I have been doing so, and walked the first few days in the boot on crutches, now with a cane. The swelling has gone down considerably, and I still feel a some pain around the injury at the end of the day, bit only if I am at work or upright for a period of hours. When will I be able to walk without a walking boot? I am leaving on a cruise 9/18, and would like to be out of the boot. I am 53, female and in good health, normally active! Thanks for providing this great service!

Jan P.

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Answer
You are doing amazing!!!
Be very grateful that you only have some discomfort. These injuries usually have a poor outcome.
Normally it takes up to 6 weeks minimum and up to 12 weeks to heal completelly.
Please protect for a minimum of 6-8 weeks.
Try some physical therapy between now and your trip and a follow up xray in the area of pain can't hurt
Bring your boot,find a comfortable gym/walking shoe with support and that will accommodate a lighter weight brace or ace wrap. You can check our website-we sell them at a reasonable price for patients who wish to purchase these items.
Good Luck Again and Enjoy your trip!!!
Dr George Tsatsos-Chicago & Elmhurst Podiatrist
Board Certified Foot & Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
NOT ADVICE_JUST INFO FOR ALL